Capital Markets Conference 2013 on 22 January to focus on ‘entering a new era’

The financial sector has undergone a metamorphosis in the recent past in its attempt to make ground on the time that was lost as a result of a war that lasted several decades. The distinction between what was previously clearly defined sectors such as banking, insurance, leasing, stockbroking, investment banking, mutual funds etc. has become increasingly blurred with many behemoths in the financial sector opting to venture into the respective sub-sectors, albeit under separate legal entities.

The Capital Market Conference 2013 (CAPM), scheduled to be held on 22 January 2013, will witness several industry leaders in these various sectors gathering at a single forum to discuss several contemporary issues.

Whilst 2012 witnessed some volatility in various quarters, the year ended on a positive note with the November budget introducing many changes that should act as a stimulus to capital markets as a whole. For instance, the concessionary tax rates for new listings in 2013, the opening of the debt markets to foreign investors, and the legislative changes to unit trust management companies are just some of the aspects that would be examined in greater detail at this landmark event.

Some changes that are still being contemplated, such as the introduction of short selling in the CSE, should also feature as part of the panel discussions by industry experts.

It is pertinent to note that the speakers and panelistswould include several prominent CEOs of financial institutions as well as listed companies, accompanied by several key officials of the SEC. In fact, the keynote address will be delivered by the Acting Director General of SEC, Prof. Hareendra Dissa Bandara who would set the tone for the entire event in his discussion on the status quo of the capital markets as well as the ‘road ahead’.